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Inland Fisheries

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 March 2018

Tuesday, 20 March 2018

Ceisteanna (775)

Dara Calleary

Ceist:

775. Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the status of the pike fishing review; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11807/18]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

In August 2014, Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) launched policies on brown trout and pike. These policies, approved by the Board of IFI, were developed by two working groups, which included inter alia representatives from the main trout and pike angling federations.

A review of these policies was scheduled to commence in 2017. However, recognising the views of stakeholders in relation to elements of the policies, the Board of IFI decided to bring forward the review period and commence the process in 2016 with a public consultation process.  More than 300 submissions were received via the public consultation process.

One of the most important issues considered in the previous policies relates to the management of pike in the designated Wild Brown Trout fisheries. In late 2016, a Review Group was established to specifically consider this issue and representatives of a number of pike and trout organisations were invited to join the Group.

The Group, having met for information gathering meetings, at which a number of expert scientists made presentations, reviewed and assimilated the data and information provided. The Group reconvened in September 2017.

The presentations delivered to the Group, along with minutes of the meetings and the public consultation submissions are publically available. Public consultation, a broad representative forum and transparency in the Review Group’s deliberations have been a central part of the Group’s progression. IFI, as a public authority, recognises the diverse opinions of stakeholders and is obliged to consider all viewpoints on this issue.

I have consistently said that while the review is in process there is no change to existing policy and that stock management measures continue. To that end, I have recently welcomed IFI’s Stock Management Plan for 2018.  I have also directed officials to consider how statutory effect can be given to the long standing policy designation of certain lakes to be managed primarily for the benefit of salmonid species.

IFI's National Pike Management Plan 2018 was published on 19 February 2018 and it can be viewed on the IFI website at

https://www.fisheriesireland.ie/extranet/fisheries-management-1/guidelines/1488-national-pike-management-plan-2018-published-1.html.

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